Borgund Stave Church, dating back to the 12th century, is one of the best-preserved stave churches in Norway. It is idyllically located along the King's Road in the small village of Borgund near Lærdal. Strategically positioned between east and west. Book a combined guided tour of the church and a walk on Vindhellavegen, the most scenic part of the King’s road.Gallery photo: Håvard Nesbø
The 12th century church is a masterpiece of Norwegian medieval architecture and has a unique atmosphere. Borgund Stave Church is the epitome of the architecture many associate with stave churches, and large parts of both the exterior and interior have been preserved. It’s eye-catching exterior features a seven-tiered roof with the typical dragon heads and galleries, as well as portals with intricate carvings.
The decoration is equally detailed and fascinating on the inside. Here, you can see the 14 pillars (staver) on which the church is built and gain insight into what it was like both before and after the Reformation in 1536.
In the mid-1800s, the church of approximately 40 square meters became too small. The population was increasing, and a new law stated that every church must have seating for a minimum of 30% of the congregation. Therefore, a new church was built, and the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments took over the stave church.
Available:
01 June - 31 August
Times:
Start: 12:00
End: 13:30
Entry to our visitor centre is included. Here you can learn about the history of Stave Churches in Norway and visit the exhibition "Unique Viking Age Finds" which showcases discoveries from the early Viking Age (9th century). Here are also a café selling refreshments and a souvenir shop.
The King’s Road was the main road between eastern and western Norway, made on order by the King in the 1790’s. It went from Oslo to Lærdal, where the journey continued by boat on the fjord to Bergen. The road was made following a path used as far back as the Viking Age.
The approx. 2-kilometre-long section known as the Vindhellavegen road is the most scenic part and although you can walk it in on your own, the best way to explore it with a guide. The path starts directly behind the stave church and is suitable for most people with normal physical condition. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
